Ethnomathematics Journal
Vol. 6 No. 2 (2025): September

EXPLORING THE ETHNOMATHEMATICS IN PHILIPPINE FOLKLORE: THE LEGEND OF BAKUNAWA

Gabica, Dexter G. (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study explores the Legend of Bakunawa through the lens of ethnomathematics, examining how indigenous Filipino folklore encodes mathematical concepts. Using Bishop’s six universal mathematical activities—counting, locating, measuring, designing, playing, and explaining—the research identifies culturally embedded forms of mathematical thinking within the narrative. The legend, which tells of a serpent-like dragon attempting to devour the seven moons, contains patterns, sequences, spatial reasoning, and symbolic numeration that align with core mathematical principles. Through qualitative analysis and ethnographic context, the study highlights how storytelling functions as both a cultural and educational tool, bridging oral tradition and formal mathematics education. The findings affirm that the Bakunawa myth, like many indigenous narratives, provides a culturally rich and pedagogically sound foundation for teaching mathematical concepts. These stories are vessels of mathematical knowledge, which help educators promote culturally responsive pedagogy, strengthen learner identity, and enrich classroom engagement.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

ethnomath

Publisher

Subject

Arts Education Mathematics Social Sciences Other

Description

Ethnomathematics Journal is an open access - international journal that provides a forum for publishing research reports, theoretical review, ideas, or innovation of mathematics education including ethnomathematics referring to the works of DAmbroisio and the colleagues. This journal is designed and ...